It’s Mardi Gras time here in SW Louisiana and for the past couple of weekends, parades and festivals have been going on throughout the area. We will be closed tomorrow (2/28) due to the area parades but wanted to share a few tips on staying safe during these events.

#1 – Remove your Keys and Lock your vehicle. This should be automatic, but many times we think we’ve done this only to find our vehicle missing or vandalized because, in all of the excitement, we forgot.

#2 – Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle. People will break into a vehicle if they see items that can generate quick cash. Laptops, Cell Phones, Jewelry, Stereo Equipment and other valuable items should be removed from the vehicle when possible.

#3 – Don’t wear expensive jewelry. Again, theft and vandalism are rampant during festivals so protect yourself by not wearing expensive jewelry or carrying a purse. If you must, strap your purse across your chest instead of just over your arm/shoulder OR carry a mini purse or wrist wallet with only your ID and 1 debit/credit card. Keep cash to a minimum and stay within well-lit areas.

#4 – Keep your children close! No one likes to think about their child being abducted or harmed in any way, but the sad truth is, parades and festivals bring numerous strangers into otherwise quiet cities, towns and neighborhoods. Some folks feel putting a harness and leash on a child is cruel or inhumane – I’d rather see that than a missing person report.

#5 – Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Stay Alert! Just this past weekend a young inebriated driver plowed into a crowd of people, injuring several. Fortunately no one was critically injured but think of the aftermath of such an event! The stress and fear alone can impact a victim for years. Added to that, this young man’s life is forever changed.

These are just a few ideas to help you stay safe and enjoy the upcoming celebrations. Safety Firstshould be your motto on any given day with special attention and added measures practiced during Mardi Gras and other festivals.

Until next time, be safe and Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler!Tommy Curtis and Staff

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Tommy Curtis

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